Nigeria has reinforced its role as a major energy player on the continent, with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) revealing the country holds about 30% of Africa’s oil reserves and 33% of its gas deposits.

At a recent industry forum in Abuja, NUPRC Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, emphasized Nigeria’s vital role in promoting energy cooperation across Africa. He credited the country’s host community development approach for reducing tensions in oil-producing areas and serving as a model for other African nations.

Komolafe also discussed ongoing sector reforms, including 17 fresh regulatory policies, new Deepwater development frameworks, and a production improvement initiative that encourages collaboration among agencies and industry operators.

He applauded President Tinubu’s latest Executive Order, which prioritizes local capacity building and enhances investor interest in Nigeria. Komolafe said international oil firms are increasingly recognizing the depth of Nigerian expertise, helping position the country as a model for local content development across the continent.

Also speaking at the event, Prof. Zainab Gobir—representing NMDPRA boss Engr. Farouk Ahmed—highlighted the need for shared infrastructure, harmonized tariffs, and aligned regulations to support regional energy integration.

Ahmed pointed to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and its Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund as key tools to attract investment by reducing risks in gas projects. He also noted the authority’s efforts to simplify processes through a one-stop service hub and ongoing stakeholder consultations.

Dr. Ernest Nwapa, pioneer Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), said the country’s oil and gas industry is bouncing back—driven by higher output, market deregulation, and stronger governance